Policy Initiatives

Local Rule 5.26:

Los Angeles County Local Rule 5.26 was implemented on July 1, 2018 and effectuated the most comprehensive procedures and rules for collaborative divorce in the state of California.  Local Rule 5.26 does the following:

1.    Defines qualifying cases for collaborative matters.

2.    Sets procedural requirements for participation (e.g., participation agreements, disclosure requirements).

3.    Outlines LA County court procedures for collaborative cases, including case management and scheduling.

4.    Ensures uniformity in how collaborative cases are handled across LA County family courts.

 

Prior to the implementation of Local Rule 5.26 in 2018, there were no clear procedures or rules for collaborative matters as the statewide Family Code Section 2013 provides no specific guidance.  Institute member Jeffery Jacobson was one of the co-authors of this local rule.  In addition, institute member Joseph Spirito, then Chair of the LA County Bar Family Law Section, was instrumental in the creation of this local rule, which serves as the gold standard for collaborative matters In California. 

SB 1427:

Up until January 1, 2026, there was no effective way for most couples who wanted to terminate their relationship status to file jointly as partners in the process.  
 
Institute members Jeff Jacobson and Jen Winestone were the key policy architects of California Senate Bill 1427, partnering with Sen. Ben Allen who authored the bill.   
 
SB 1427 amended Family Code Sections 2330 and 2331, and added Family Code Section 2342.5, creating a process for spouses to file for divorce jointly.  This new process expands access to a more respectful, efficient, and non-adversarial process and represents a meaningful shift toward a more humane and forward-thinking approach to family law in California.
 
Institute members supported and endorsed these legislative efforts, operating as a think tank which helped shape and support the current legislation.